Kansas City Chiefs LG Kingsley Suamataia breaks his silence on being benched and returning to the starting lineup in Week 9
The Kansas City Chiefs had their starting left guard back in Week 9 vs. the New York Jets. Kingsley Suamataia spoke about his benching for the first time, echoing recent comments from Andy Reid.
Kansas City Chiefs starting LG Kingsley Suamataia has been benched twice during the 2026 NFL season. That first happened in Week 4 against the Las Vegas Raiders. The second time came in Week 8 against the Denver Broncos. Mike Caliendo started in his place both times.
In Week 9’s game against the New York Jets, Suamataia returned to the starting lineup. Chiefs HC Andy Reid has remained steadfast in his response to any inquiries. He says the reason for Suamataia’s benching is between coach and player. Reid clarified after Week 8’s loss to the Denver Broncos that the decision was not “punishment,” which only added to the mystery.
After the Week 9 victory over the Jets, Suamataia got a chance to tell his side of the story. He echoed his head coach’s comments. However, he added plenty about being back on the field and his role with the team.
Kingsley Suamataia Quick Stats & Facts
Suamataia was a second-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft out of BYU. He began his NFL career at left tackle before becoming Kansas City’s starting left guard in 2025.
- Games played: 39
- Games started: 25
- Pressures allowed: 56
- Sacks surrendered: 7
Kingsley Suamataia echoes Chiefs HC Andy Reid on his recent benching
Suamataia’s comments follow suit with Coach Reid, keeping the specifics of what’s going on behind the scenes in-house. What is apparent through his comments and performance? Suamataia was amped up to be back on the field in his typical role.
“Yeah, you know, that’s between me and Coach Reid,” Suamataia said. “And yeah, it’ll be like that. But it was just a good feeling to be out there with the boys again and just play backyard football. So it was good.”
Suamataia played a pivotal role in the Chiefs’ Week 9 win over the Jets. His 80.9 PFF Grade was the fourth-highest mark on the team. Most notably, Suamataia set up RB Kenneth Walker’s 25-yard touchdown on a screen pass in the second quarter, paving the way with multiple athletic blocks in space.
“Yeah, I missed it a lot, man,” Suamataia said. “But, you know, whether I have to show a scout team look or be on the field, I’ve got to give my 110% just to help this team out.”
Suamataia certainly gave 110% effort in Week 9’s win and further proved that he needs to be on the field for Kansas City. Perhaps the excitement Suamataia felt in Week 9 will be the turning point that lets him stay on the field and in the lineup for the rest of the season.
